Nicolas Roche video interview part II: Getting the balance right, building for a bigger 2014 and looking further ahead

Irish rider speaks about Giro start in Belfast, his goals if he rides and a possible new build-up to the Tour

Nicolas Roche had the best race of his career in the Vuelta a España, winning a stage, wearing the red jersey plus each of the other category leader’s jerseys and then finishing fifth in Madrid.

The performance has boosted his morale and motivation, and shows that he is continuing to improve as he heads towards his thirties.

Roche recently met with VeloNation and sat down for an extensive interview in a Dublin hotel. Away from the bustle of racing and the buzz of the pro circuit, he was relaxed and open in his answers, having time to go into considerable detail about a range of topics.

In part I of a two part interview, he spoke at length about the Vuelta, about his season, about his move to Team Saxo Tinkoff, the Tour de France and gave an insight into racing alongside Alberto Contador. That video can be seen here

Roche continues in part II by explaining his thoughts heading towards the 2014 season, including giving details about an error he made with his preparation last winter and how he hopes to change things this time round. He speaks about the Giro d’Italia starting in Ireland, his chances of being involved and the goal he would like to achieve if he is. He also gives his thoughts on the Tour de France, a possible new approach in his build-up to that race and what he thinks might be possible longer-term.

The detailed interview below also sees him cover other topics; click on the video to watch.